Two of Bolgheri’s greatest reds, Ornellaia and Masseto share their cellar with a dashing white? Not everyone knows that the Ornellaia Estate, on Tuscany’s wind-swept west coast, has produced Poggio Alle Gazze since 1995. Although the makeup of this exciting wine has evolved over the decades, it has always been a Sauvignon Blanc-based white. The addition of Viognier and Vermentino give it body and a certain saline briskness. It adds up to a polished, meticulously vibrant white that sits alongside those fabulous reds very comfortably indeed.
2016 Poggio Alle Gazze Dell’Ornellaia $75 srp
A light, golden yellow in color. High intensity floral, grassy and citrus scents jump out at you, with elements of honeydew, honeysuckle and gun smoke. There’s an ocean “tang” as well that encourages sipping. The mouth texture is caressingly creamy yet zesty with melon, lemon-lime and a slightly honeyed profile overall. This is a poised, mineral-laden wine which is beautifully framed and long on the palate. Try with scallops, herbed poultry or a creamy pasta dish. (80% Sauvignon Blanc, 10% Viognier and 10% Vermentino) Drink now-2021.
92/100 points
